What can we learn from Ruth's humility in seeking permission to glean? Setting the Scene “Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, ‘Please let me go into the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I may find favor.’ Naomi said to her, ‘Go ahead, my daughter.’” (Ruth 2:2) A Portrait of Humility • Ruth asks, “Please let me go…”—she seeks permission, not asserting a right, though the Law allowed gleaning (Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:19). • She places herself “behind” the reapers—choosing the lowest spot. • She looks for “favor,” admitting total dependence on kindness. • She identifies herself as “the Moabitess,” remembering she is an outsider. • She defers to Naomi, her elder and mother-in-law, honoring authority in the home (Exodus 20:12). Lessons for Us Today • True humility asks, it does not demand—James 4:6: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” • Serving from the back of the line positions us for God’s promotion (Luke 14:10). • Recognizing our need invites mercy—Psalm 123:2: “So our eyes look to the LORD our God, until He shows us mercy.” • Honoring earthly authority opens doors to divine provision—Ephesians 6:1-3. • Humility and initiative are not opposites; Ruth quietly takes action for her household. Cross-References that Echo Ruth’s Spirit • Proverbs 3:34—“He mocks the mockers but gives grace to the humble.” • 1 Peter 5:5—“Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another.” • Philippians 2:3-4—“In humility value others above yourselves.” • Matthew 5:5—“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” Fruit of Humble Dependence • Favor with men: Boaz notices Ruth (Ruth 2:10-11). • Provision in abundance: she gathers an ephah—far more than scraps (Ruth 2:17). • Protection and honor: Boaz commands his men not to rebuke her (Ruth 2:15-16). • A legacy of redemption: humility positions Ruth in the lineage of David and the Messiah (Ruth 4:13-22; Matthew 1:5-6). Ruth’s simple, respectful request to glean becomes a living illustration that “humble yourselves under God’s mighty hand, that He may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:6). |
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